With Boeing, the F-15 manufacturer, as prime contractor and
integrator, the Epawss system is expected to include a new digital
internal radar warning receiver, upgraded chaff-and-flare dispenser and a
new fiber-optic towed decoy. The new system will also address
"capability gaps as threats evolve," ACC officials say. "The threat
environment is becoming congested and contested [and] F-15s need a
modern EW system to remain viable in the future operational
environment."
The
emergence of Digital Radio Frequency Memory technologies also has
frustrated allied EW technology, driving a need for upgrades. Using
DRFM, an adversary can swiftly replicate signals, allowing for fast and
accurate jamming in the air battle.
Though
ACC officials say TEWS "lacks performance to counter current/future
threats," Epawss introduction into service is beyond the future years
defense plan, or beyond 2020. Installs for developmental testing
aircraft are slated for fiscal 2017, the Air Force acquisition officials
say.
The service is also
procuring a long-wave infrared search and track (IRST) for the F-15C
aircraft, which are primarily dedicated to air superiority missions.
This IRST will provide beyond-visual range identification for enemy
formations, allowing for operators to distinguish the number and
possibly type of aircraft in formation at extended range.
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